Royal College of Occupational Therapists

09/10/2026

People shouldn’t have to wait for a diagnosis to get the support they need to live their lives.

A new independent review led by Professor Peter Fonagy highlights why support should be based on people’s needs and the impact on their everyday lives — not simply on diagnoses or waiting-list targets.

This is at the heart of occupational therapy. OTs look beyond diagnoses and find practical ways to help people participate in everyday activities, from education and work to relationships and community life.

We’re calling for greater investment in occupational therapists so more people can access the right support, earlier.

🔗 Read more: www.rcot.co.uk/latest-news/rcot-success-should-be-measured-by-participation-not-diagnoses

08/10/2026

Pam Anderson, Fellowship

What does it take to become an RCOT Fellow? Ask Pam Anderson 🏅

A Fellowship is the highest honour we can give, recognising exceptional service and outstanding contribution to the profession and to RCOT over many years.

As Pam puts it, occupation provides meaning, purpose and fulfilment and that belief is exactly the kind of contribution Fellowship exists to recognise.💛

07/10/2026

Ever wondered how occupational therapy tackles Staying True to Your Roots?

In our latest Advanced Practice podcast episode, Sarah Hodge talks us about staying true to your roots as an OT and why it makes such a difference to people's everyday lives. 🎙️

Occupational therapy is about helping people do the things that matter to them, and this episode shows exactly how.
Give it a listen 🎧

In this episode of RCOT’s Career Conversations about advanced pract...

06/10/2026

We're proud to join fellow members of the AHP Federation in calling for stronger Allied Health Professional leadership as part of NHS reform.

AHPs are central to prevention, rehabilitation, recovery and helping people live independently. Their expertise should be reflected in NHS decision-making at every level.

Read the joint statement 🔗 https://bit.ly/4ywl1X4

06/10/2026

3,000+ members. Hundreds of voices at our listening events. One strategy that belongs to all of us.

It sets out six priorities to guide our work through to 2029 – hear from CEO Gary Waltham and Chair Odeth Richardson on what they are👇

Together, we'll strengthen the profession, improve the support we offer members and champion the difference occupational therapy makes to people's health, wellbeing and quality of life.

Read more about our three-year strategy here ➡️ https://bit.ly/4y5yEvt

05/10/2026

The team has been busy across the UK this week.

Attending party conferences, meeting with key stakeholders and making sure occupational therapy stays visible in the conversations shaping the future of health and care. Alongside AHP colleagues, we have also signed a letter calling for AHP leadership and impact to be reflected in the new Health Bill. A collective voice for the profession, at exactly the right moment.

Gary, our CEO, shares the full update.

02/10/2026

We have to stop telling people to become OTs, or we’re in danger or having too many caring, passionate individuals ready to make a change in the community.

We love this playful explanation of how amazing OTs are and how important their impact can be.

This year's Black History Month theme, 'Honouring our Communities', recognises the people and communities that shape and support us. RCOT is recognising and amplifying Black occupational therapists whose everyday care makes a difference, both in their work and through their voices online.

- one to watch!

02/10/2026

Joe Brunwin was at the Labour Party Conference, learning more about the new government's work and where occupational therapy fits within their priorities in care policy.

There was a real focus on how to support young people in the UK, as well as health and social care.

Follow RCOT for weekly policy updates where we discuss how occupational therapy can support policy change.

01/10/2026

October is Black History Month. A time to celebrate the contributions, culture and heritage of Black people in our communities, our workplaces and our profession.

That includes the Black occupational therapists, students and colleagues who bring their skills, lived experience and perspectives to a profession that is stronger for their presence.

That is something worth celebrating all year round.

If you're a member, your Black History Month logo is ready to download and use on your email signature, website or anywhere you show up professionally.
Get yours here 👉 /www.rcot.co.uk/latest-news/black-history-month-rcot

01/10/2026

Stronger Allied Health Professional leadership means bringing our expertise into the decisions that shape the future of health and care.

It means better multidisciplinary decision-making, services designed around people’s needs, and a stronger focus on prevention, early intervention and rehabilitation.

That’s why AHP Federation members are calling for AHP expertise to be embedded across NHS leadership and decision-making structures.

Read our joint statement: www.rcot.co.uk/latest-news/ahpf-calls-stronger-ahp-leadership-nhs-reform